County offers instructions for applying for FEMA assistance

Sarasota County government offices will resume normal operations Monday. In addition, the Sarasota County Commission will meet for the final fiscal year 2025 budget hearing and approval at 5:30 p.m. Monday at the Administration Building, 1660 Ringling Blvd.

The county has published guidelines when applying for FEMA relief. Those who applied for assistance following Hurricane Debby, Idalia or previous storms must apply separately for damage sustained during Hurricane Helene.

Applicants must describe the damage that occurred and on what date to ensure federal disaster assistance from storms is not duplicated.

Keep all receipts for expenses associated fincluding:

• Home repairs.
• Repairs to a septic system, water well or private road.
• Purchase of a generator or chainsaw.
• Replacement of personal property items such as appliances.
• Vehicle repairs or replacement.
• Insurance settlement or denial.

FEMA assistance will not cover losses already covered from a previous disaster but can help with new damage caused by Hurricane Helene. Eligible survivors affected by both events may receive serious needs assistance and displacement assistance in both disasters.

To help ensure aganst duplicity, FEMA verifies disaster-caused damage by comparing inspection reports, appeal estimates and receipts. Applicants who previously created a Login.gov account may use that same account to access multiple applications.

The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. Storm damage victims may also apply on the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling 800-621-3362.